Overview
Implemented in 2010 by the Washington DC Police Foundation, who partnered with the Metropolitan Police Department and DC Public Schools to bring public safety education to 5th grade classrooms in the DC community.

5th graders in each classroom enroll in the Junior Cadet program by taking a pledge to accept the position of Junior Cadet of the Metropolitan Police Department; to be a good citizen; performing their best in school; and remaining drug free and practicing non-violent behavior.

Throughout the school year, teachers will dedicate one hour per week for curriculum taught by MPD School Resource Officers or Corporate Partners. Examples include; life skills, internet safety, emergency preparedness, and more.

The Junior Cadet program expanded to three schools in 2012!


Goals

The Junior Cadet program is designed to achieve 3 goals:

1. Reduce Truancy
2. Increase Positive Behavior
3. Improve Academics

Objectives

• Establish a Junior Cadet program in DC's public elementary schools in high-risk neighborhoods to provide positive law enforcement role models who teach and mentor students

• Help students develop the following skills: oral and written communication, critical thinking, conflict resolution, and drug and gang violence prevention.

• Fulfill the DC Police Foundation's commitment to seek out and provide funding and in-kind gifts to support MPD programs to keep youth safe and involved in positive activities throughout the year.
  

Participating Schools

• Ferebee-Hope Elementary in Ward 8
• Seaton Elementary in Ward 2
• Winston Education Campus in Ward 7

To learn more, please read our Junior Cadet Brochure.